15 best hairsprays that are ultra-fine, ultra-strong and excellent at keeping your style in tact
A good hairspray is an absolute must-have if you're someone who styles your hair regularly (or even occasionally). In fact, statistics revealed that in 2020 alone, roughly 3.26 million women used hair styling products (including hairsprays) at least once a day or more.
And while hairsprays are popular all year round, they tend to be a bigger priority in the summer. With the heat and humidity at their peak, the odds of your hairstyle surviving the whole day without securing it with a hairspray are slim to none, be it for a festival look, a sleek bun or a wedding hairstyle. So whether you have a big holiday trip coming up or if you're simply looking to upgrade your collection of hair products, being on the look out for the best hairsprays is never a bad idea.
After all, what's the point in curling your hair if by the time you've made it to the office, it's poker straight again? What's the point of nailing a sky-high pony, only for it to slide down the back of your head by lunchtime? Why spend ages teasing your hair into place for dinner, only for it to resort to its natural state moments later?
For those who have been avoiding hairspray thanks to early crunchy encounters, it's prime time to reacquaint yourself. The good news is, the new guard have ditched heavy, sticky formulas with ultra fine mists that can be brushed out at the end of the day, for hair that still feels like hair.
Not only do best hairsprays keep your hairstyle intact, but they can also give incredible lifting volume to both thick and fine hair. As a bonus, you can even use it in fashion emergencies too, since it'll repel static when your clothes feel clingy. The next time your skirt won't stop sticking to your thighs, just spritz the underside and it will fall into line. And, if you've laddered your tights, blast the top and bottom with some hairspray to hold it from tearing any further.
Feeling inspired to upgrade your haircare routine? Check out our guides for the best hair dryers, best hair straighteners, and best curling wands. We can also help you pick the best shampoo, best hair conditioner and best hair serums.
So what are the best hairsprays right now?
- Best hairspray overall: TRESemme Flexible Hold Hairspray, £5.99, Boots
- Best hairspray for an extra-strong hold: Schwarzkopf got2b Glued Blasting Freeze Spray, £3, FeelUnique
- Best hairspray for dry hair: Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray, £17.25, FeelUnique
- Best volumising hairspray: Bumble and Bumble Thickening Dryspun Texture Spray, £19.20, Boots
- Best anti-humidity hairspray: Oribe Imperméable Anti-Humidity Spray, £22, Selfridges
How to find the best hairspray
Finding the right hairspray might be tricky, whether you're shopping online or carefully inspecting the hair products aisle in person. To save you some research time, we spoke to Paul Percival, hair stylist and founder of Percy & Reed, to help you make the right choice.
If you want to avoid that plastic-y feel, you should look for a hairspray that has a dry and lightweight formula. Paul shared that you can test it out by simply spraying some on the back of your hand and, ideally, it shouldn't feel "sticky and wet". Basically, “the faster a spray dries down, the better it will be in use," he added. In fact, according to Paul, not only is a wet and sticky formula “terrible to use," but it may also damage the hair in the long-term. Another way to tell if a hairspray that you already own is dry is to be cautious of the “shhh” noise when you're using a heated tool such as a hair straightener. If the noise is there, then it's likely that your hairspray has a wet formula.
How should I apply a hairspray?
Depending on your hairstyle, there are many ways to apply your hairspray. Want to try out the viral Bella Hadid-inspired bun? Try spraying some on a toothbrush (obviously not the one you use to brush your teeth, yikes) and simply secure your baby hairs and any fly-aways. Hairsprays are also handy when it comes to applying wigs. While techniques vary, the general guidance is to spray your hairspray on the edges of your wig cap (once you've cut it down to fit your hairline).
But if you're planning a classic wavy or bouncy look, it really couldn't get any simpler. If you're after a stronger hold, you can use it while you're styling your hair with heated hair tools, and once you're done, feel free to spray some more to secure the look.
BUT… the key is to avoid spraying too close to the hair. Paul shared that “the best way to use any good hairspray is to hold the spray about 20 cm away from the hair and mist it over the area you are styling.”
Oh, and if you want to add a bit more volume, a well-known tip is to spray your hair while your head is upside down.
Our hair has never smelt so damn good.
Can I use hairspray everyday?
Since good-quality hairsprays won't make your hair feel as if you're wearing a helmet (provided that the application is moderate, of course), there's no reason why you shouldn't use a hairspray on a regular basis. Most of the time you're going to be able to brush nearly all of the product out quite easily and wash it the next day (or whenever you deem it necessary). But to keep your hair extra-smooth, we suggest adding a hair mask and a leave-in conditioner to your regular routine.
On the lookout for price-cuts? Save up to 70% when you shop for the best hairsprays with FeelUnique discount codes. OR enjoy up to 50% off with these Boots promo codes.
Scroll down to see the best hairsprays on the market that are sure to become a staple in your bathroom cupboard (and handbag for static emergencies).
Best hairspray overall
Why we love it: This hairspray is both reasonably priced and reliable for when you want a natural flexible hold that can tame frizzy hair. It’s the optimal all-day product as it’s non-sticky to the touch and can be brushed out easily. Did we mention that it's both incredibly accessible and affordable?
Customers are saying: Keeps hair in a neat position all day long, brushes out easily, doesn't leave hair feeling hard.
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Best hairspray for an extra-strong hold
Why we love it: If you’re looking for a product that can freeze and cement your perfect hairstyle in place, then this is the one for you. In fact, this hairspray is so powerful that it’ll hold until the next time you shampoo. Its strength also makes it very versatile, whether you want a messy 'do or twisted tips.
Customers are saying: Great holding power, good for curls and easy to wash off. However, the spray’s nozzle is prone to clogging.
Best hairspray for fine hair
Why we love it: Ultra-fine and ultra-dry mist? Ultra-yes. This hairspray's flexible polymer blend gives it a light hold and satin finish that can be layered together with other products if needed, making it a versatile addition to any styling collection. You'll also be glad to know that the product's formula is both vegan and cruelty-free.
Customers are saying: Pleasant aroma, excellent fixation effect, lightweight and doesn't live any sticky residue on the hair.
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Best hairspray for heat protection
Why we love it: If you're looking for a hairspray that can reliably protect your ‘do from the summer heat, then your search is over. This product seals in your hairstyle with a strong hold that's resistant to both humidity and high temperatures, making it the perfect product to accompany you on your summer holidays.
Customers are saying: Feels natural, combs out easily and leaves no stickiness.
Best hairspray for frizzy hair
Why we love it: This product features a weightless formula that has a long-lasting effect without leaving your hair either crunchy or covered in residue. A good tip to be aware of is that it's best used when applying to damp hair. That way, you'll be in the best possible position to tame and control your frizz.
Customers are saying: Works well even in ‘tropical’ conditions, has a medium hold and great for fine hair.
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Best affordable hairspray
Why we love it: L'Oreal's iconic micro diffusor hairspray gives your hair that natural-looking shine without any stiffness or stickiness. The best part is that this affordable product has an extra strong hold that keeps throughout the day and still disappears at the stroke of a brush without leaving a trace of residue.
Customers are saying: Does the job without feeling heavy, stands up very well to strong wind and humidity.
Best hairspray for dry hair
Why we love it: Although this product is pricier than most, it's perfect for maintaining a soft and natural hairstyle. Its secret is that it contains argan oil, which provides an extra kick in the fight against frizz and humidity on top of its moisturising properties. Great for putting together natural-looking styles.
Customers are saying: Adds a subtle shine, amazing on hair and hair extensions. “My go to hairspray! Hair looks silky and sleek!”
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Best texturising hairspray
Why we love it: This hairspray is rich in volcanic minerals, which makes it great at absorbing excess oil and leaving hair feeling extra clean and fresh. If you're looking for something that will give your hair volume while preserving its natural movement, this is it. The best part is it's still light enough to be brushed out.
Customers are saying: Creates a great natural volume and hold, gives enough texture for a natural look and doesn’t make hair oily the next day.
Best lightweight hairspray
Why we love it: Looking for a product that can keep your hairdo in place without feeling too heavy? Look no further than this ultra-fine mist hairspray. This product is formulated with John Frieda's Air-Silk Technology, giving your hairstyle an impressively brushable hold and lightweight body.
Customers are saying: Lovely light feeling when on hair, can be brushed and doesn't make hair sticky. “Would definitely recommend for anyone with fine hair as it makes it feel fuller."
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Best hairspray for curly hair
Why we love it: There's no hairspray better at plumping and volumising curls than one that's been specifically designed to do just that. Featuring a combination of castor oil and amino acids, this product is ideal for curly, coily and wavy hair and will leave your hairdo springy, flexible and protected against the heat.
Customers are saying: Works on curls without weighing them down, amazing at defining natural curls whilst holding them in place.
Best volumising hairspray
Why we love it: Whoever claimed volume doesn't come in a can clearly never came across this hairspray. The Bumble and bumble thickening spray includes silk powder as part of its formula, which provides a translucent and dry finish that gives your hairstyle a lift. It also contains sunflower extract to better protect your hair.
Customers are saying: Adds texture to any style and gives instant volume. “I feel like it's a mix between hairspray and dry shampoo, without the stickiness or white residue.”
Save when you shop for best hairsprays with these Boots discount codes.
Best anti-humidity hairspray
Why we love it: How do you know that this hairspray can hold in humid conditions? Well, it was tested at Oribe's Miami salon and passed with flying colours. Designed with a parabens-free formula, this hairspray will protect your hairstyle against constant heat while keeping it frizz-free for whole days on end.
Customers are saying: Very lightweight and controls the fine hairs that go crazy in damp weather. “It comes along on every humid holiday with me and does exactly what it says [while] also adding volume.”
Best hairspray for shine
Why we love it: This hairspray is designed to be long-lasting and give your hair a premium high-shine finish. Suitable for all hair types, you can rest assured knowing that this product will be more than suitable to use before straightening or setting your hairstyle. Not to mention the added texture and the firm hold that it brings to the table.
Customers are saying: Non-sticky, fast drying and holds style beautifully. "Definitely multi-tasking. Leaves hair soft and with movement."
Save when you shop for best hairsprays with these Cult Beauty discount codes.
Best hairspray for a medium hold
Why we love it: One hairspray is too heavy, another is too light… But, THIS one is just right. This product is created with long-lasting polymers that gives your hair the shine and softness it needs. At the same time, you can rely on its reliable yet flexible hold to control your frizz and locks without leaving a crispy texture.
Customers are saying: Good hold without being like glue, brushes out leaving hair feeling clean and keeps hair in place all day.
Best hairspray for natural hairstyles
Why we love it: Nothing screams ‘natural’ like real sea salt taken from the Dead Sea. This hairspray can help you create a beach-y textured finish that's perfect for that summer look. Its formula also contains glycerin to help protects your hair against humidity and hydrate it from within.
Customers are saying: Gives the perfect hair beach waves and great after washing hair to add extra volume.
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